Use "Ok Google" voice searches & actions

You can use your voice to do actions like search, get directions, and create reminders. For example, to see if there's rain in the weather forecast, say, "Ok Google, do I need an umbrella tomorrow?" On some devices, you can also say, "Hey Google."

Turn on voice search

On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google app .

At the bottom right, tap Menu Settings Voice Voice Match.

Choose when you want your phone to listen when you say "Ok Google."

Start a voice search

On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google app .

Say "Ok Google" or tap the Microphone .

Tip: On some devices, you can also say, "Hey Google."

Change your "Ok Google" settings

Settings can vary by device and Google app version. Not all settings are yet available for all languages.

When you can say "Ok Google"

Access with Voice Match or From any screen:
If the screen is on or the device is charging, you can say "Ok Google" from any screen. This setting could prevent some other voice services that use hot words or wake-up commands from working.

While driving:
You can say "Ok Google" while you use Google Maps and Android Auto.

Always-on:
You can say "Ok Google" whether your screen is on or off.

When your screen is locked

Unlock with Voice Match:
When you say "Ok Google" from a secure lock screen and we're able to recognize the sound of your voice, you can ask Google to take actions for you or visit sites without having to unlock your device manually.

Personal results:
See personal results for your voice searches, even when your device is locked.

"Ok Google" voice model

Retrain voice model:
Teach Google the sound of your voice again. Try this if Google isn’t recognizing your voice when you say "Ok Google." If you don't see this setting, make sure "Access with Voice Match," "From any screen," or "Always-on" is turned on.

Google learns some of your preferred apps

When you don’t mention the app name for some requests (for example, you say only “scan my receipt”), you can open the app from the search results. After you do this a few times, Google learns that you want to open the app and won't ask again.

If you want to be asked each time before opening the app:

Say or type the voice action.

Cancel by tapping .

Repeat a few times.

The app will no longer launch automatically. It will appear in search results again; in some cases, it will appear after a few minutes.

Where you can use voice search

These actions are available in English in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, Singapore, and South Africa.